Microsoft recently praised the British Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) for its "strict but fair" approach regarding the review of Microsoft's Activision Blizzard acquisition. Initially, the CMA blocked the deal, which led to Microsoft arguing that this decision was disadvantageous for the UK and made the EU seem like a more appealing place for businesses. After further discussions, the CMA agreed to the deal on the condition that Microsoft sell certain Activision game cloud gaming rights to Ubisoft. Microsoft's Brad Smith reflected on the matter, expressing that while he wouldn't retract his previous concerns, he would now choose different words to convey his opinion. He acknowledged the stringent standards of the CMA, which pushed Microsoft to modify its acquisition strategy for Activision Blizzard's cloud gaming aspect.
What was the outcome of Microsoft's discussion with the CMA regarding Activision Blizzard's acquisition?The outcome was that Microsoft agreed to sell certain cloud gaming rights related to Activision games to Ubisoft, allowing the acquisition to proceed while addressing the CMA's concerns about maintaining competition in the cloud gaming market.
Activision Blizzard is known for iconic franchises such as "Call of Duty," "World of Warcraft," and "Overwatch." The acquisition by Microsoft was a significant move in the gaming industry, expected to further boost Microsoft's gaming portfolio and strengthen its position in the competitive cloud gaming market. The deal, initially met with regulatory concerns due to potential anti-competitive risks, underwent rigorous evaluation before being approved with certain conditions.
Samira Khan
Samira Khan is a narrative enthusiast with a keen eye for storytelling in games. Her literary approach to game criticism examines themes, character development, and plot structure, earning her a following among gamers who appreciate the art of narrating.
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Comments
Gotta give props to the CMA for not rolling over on this huge Microsoft-Activision deal—it's like they're the dungeon boss ensuring gamers don't get shortchanged on competition. Brad Smith's reflective tone on the pushback from CMA just goes to show that sometimes a steep challenge brings out a better quest completion, with this compromise keeping the cloud gaming scene spicy.
Gotta respect the CMA's dedication to keeping the gaming market competitive; it's reassuring to see big deals like Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard being given such a thorough check-up. Also, it's a pretty smart move for both Microsoft and Ubisoft, turning a regulatory hurdle into what could be a win-win collab for cloud gaming 🎮👀
Gotta say, the CMA playing hardball led to a win-win in the epic Microsoft-Activision saga – the deal moves forward, and competition stays in the game. It's clear Microsoft's juggernaut move with Activision is shaking up the cloud gaming battlefield, and Ubisoft just got a sweet power-up from it.